Junichi Inagaki Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Fade-out (in a wavering heart)Inagaki Junichi36rank/position

(In a wavering heart) Fade-out

Opening with images of a broken-heeled high heel and a parting scene, this piece is a number steeped in the ache of adult romance, portraying a wavering man’s heart caught between turmoil and forgiveness.

The lyrics weave delicate words to express complicated feelings toward a lover, and the gradual fade-out at the end beautifully echoes the title.

The samba-tinged rhythm is soothing, and together with its modern chord progression it creates an urban, mellow atmosphere.

Although it wasn’t released as a single, the track—featured on the February 1983 album “Shylights”—has maintained enduring popularity, later being selected for the best-of compilation “REVELATION.” It’s a quintessential early city-pop song by Inagaki, perfect for a drive or for contemplative, quietly reflective nights.

246:3AMInagaki Junichi37rank/position

246:3AM

Released as a single alongside the debut album in July 1982, this song stands out with its distinctive title that blends National Route 246 and 3 a.m.

The lyrics were written by Reiko Yukawa, the music composed by Kazuhiko Matsuo, and the arrangement handled by Akira Inoue, making it a defining track of Junichi Inagaki’s early AOR sound.

The album features accomplished musicians such as Tsuyoshi Kon and Tatsuo Hayashi, contributing to its sophisticated production.

Its bittersweet melody and restrained vocals harmonize beautifully, capturing the poignancy of the city at night.

Highly recommended for city pop enthusiasts and anyone seeking the roots of early-’80s Japanese-language AOR.

Once again, with passionInagaki Junichi38rank/position

Junichi Inagaki [Once More, With Passion]

Lyrics by Etsuko Kisugi; music by Yasuhiro Abe.

It’s a song about a love that once burned passionately but is now nearing its end.

It expresses a man’s feelings—his wish to fall in love so fiercely once more, to love as he did before.

Distance of SorrowInagaki Junichi39rank/position

Kanashimino Distance

It’s a classic song that portrays a bittersweet winter romance.

The protagonist’s struggle to close the emotional distance with a faraway lover is deeply moving.

Released in March 2022, the piece was composed by longtime collaborator Tetsuji Hayashi.

It was also performed at Ms.

Inagaki’s 40th anniversary concert, becoming a much-talked-about favorite among fans.

Listen to it on a winter night spent alone or during a long-distance relationship, and its empathetic lyrics and gentle melody will surely wrap your heart in warmth.

Karen in LoveInagaki Junichi40rank/position

Junichi Inagaki “Karen in Love”

This is a song beautifully sung by Junichi Inagaki, crafted by Eiichi Ohtaki.

Its striking lyrics and melody, which express the fragility and wistfulness of being in love, leave a lingering resonance that sinks into the heart.

Included on the April 1990 album “Self Portrait,” this piece is also captivating for how it once again showcases Inagaki’s exceptional vocal prowess.

By embracing this work—which conveys the determination to look forward even while bearing the pain of heartbreak—your heart, too, may gradually begin to clear.

terminal stationInagaki Junichi41rank/position

Junichi Inagaki “Terminal Station”

A heartwarming ballad woven from Yasushi Akimoto’s lyrics and Toshiaki Matsumoto’s composition.

While depicting a love story at the moment of parting, it expresses the bittersweet feelings held in a man’s heart.

Included on the May 1992 album “SKETCH of HEART,” this song is known as one of Junichi Inagaki’s signature tracks.

It also gained popularity in China, achieving cross-border acclaim, with a cover released by superstar Leon Lai.

It’s recommended for times when you want to heal the pain of heartbreak or reflect on a past love.

Junichi Inagaki’s emotionally rich voice is sure to resonate with your heart.

Azure ReminiscenceInagaki Junichi42rank/position

Junichi Inagaki “Blue Reminiscence”

An urban, stylish track that paints the bittersweet memories of love.

Featured on Junichi Inagaki’s debut album “246:3AM,” this song was released in October 1982 as a symbol of the city pop boom.

Anyone will find themselves relating to the protagonist who keeps chasing a love that has already passed.

The lyrics, evoking the chill and loneliness of the city, meld with Inagaki’s clear, translucent vocals to strike straight at the heart.

It’s perfect for soothing the pain of a broken heart or for reminiscing about someone special.

You might even enjoy taking a walk through the city at night while listening to it.